when should I book?

Maternity sessions are best photographed between 28-34 weeks. Usually, within this time you'll have a gorgeous, defined belly while still being comfortable for a variety of poses.

is this safe? Do I need to be a good swimmer?

Consult with your doctor. Being in water relieves stress on the body so going for a dip when you’re pregnant can feel like a really nice break from carrying that extra weight around! However, you should always consult with your doctor or doula before trying something new while you’re pregnant.

Safety is my number one priority. Even if you’re a good swimmer, there is a level of difficulty that comes with posing underwater, especially when you’re wearing clothing or working with props. This is why we take our time. My sessions are slow-paced, allowing plenty of time to get comfortable in the water. Sessions begin in the shallow end, where you will always be able to touch the pool bottom. Only when you’re ready and I’m 100% confident you are capable, will we advance to working in deeper water. Although, we might need to even go there! I’ve shot many sessions in water that is just deep enough so you can still stand with your head above water.

Anyone can pose underwater, including you! You don't even need to be a good swimmer. I will walk you step by step through techniques on how to submerge and control your breath. I’ll teach you what to do with your hands, legs, face, eyes, hair, wardrobe and might tell you over and over “point your toes!” Out of all the private sessions I’ve done in over a decade, I’ve never once had a client not be able to get great photos.

what should I wear?

When preparing for a shoot, we will discuss your wardrobe needs and plan out the looks you would like to achieve. I have a collection of maternity gowns in many colors that area available to you at no extra cost.

Undergarments Is your outfit sheer? If so consider if you will wear undergarments and choose those wisely to match.

Fabric takes on a whole new life when you put it underwater. I have TONS of fabric in many different colors and textures. These can be paired with any outfit for a more “flowy” look.

I love thrift store finds . You can take something you would never think of wearing on a normal occasion and when you wear it underwater it becomes a beautiful thing.

How should I do my hair and makeup?

DO YOUR OWN MAKEUP. Waterproof eyeliner and mascara are important, don’t fret too much over the rest. It’s okay to go a little heavier as colors tend to get washed out underwater. Bring backup makeup for touch ups.

BOOK A MAKEUP ARTIST. I work with several talented makeup artists who have the whole underwater makeup thing down. I’ve seen their makeup last perfectly for over 3 hours in the water. I always recommend booking a makeup artist when you book with me. It’s so nice to have that pampering before your shoot and the assurance that your makeup is going to look flawless.

KEEP IT LOOKING FRESH! There is one major factor in keeping your makeup looking good in the water and that is making sure you don’t wipe or touch your face when you come out of the water. It is a natural reaction for everyone to wipe their face every time so it's important to make a very conscious effort to avoid it.

HAIR Typically I recommend leaving your hair down. I can’t help but just love that flowy look! I’ll teach you some tricks if you’re worried about it getting in your face. If you do want to wear it up, braids and buns look great! Just be sure everything is secured tightly with pins.

AVOID HAIR PRODUCTS They can cloud the pool water. There is no need for hair products when your hair is going to get wet!

WIGS can be a really fun addition to an outfit! Especially if you have shorter hair and would like to achieve that long, flowy look, or just want to jazz it up with a fun color. You’ll want to be sure it’s secured tightly to your head so it doesn’t slide around in the water.

Will the water be warM? what if it’s cold outside?

If you’re cold, it’s going to show and it just makes for an unpleasant experience! This is why I only shoot if it’s above 60 degrees outside and then the pool must be heated appropriately for the weather.*

If the outdoor temperature is between 60-75 degrees the pool will be heated to 90 degrees and if the outdoor temperature is 75-90 degrees it will be heated to at least 85.

Even if it’s a hot day and the water is cold, your body will get chilled quickly so I always make sure it’s a comfortable temp.

I may have you go take a warm shower in the house to warm up your body temp if you do start to get chilled.

* The pool is available to shoot in year-round and can be heated to 90 degrees at any time. Shooting in conditions less than 60 degrees outdoor temp is possible, if agreed upon by both parties. In this case, an extra fee may incur to account for heating the pool.

can I bring a friend or family member?

Absolutely! I am all about it. It’s great to have someone share the experience with you, be moral support, take behind the scenes, and even drive you home after you’re wiped out from our little pool workout.

It does not cost extra to include an extra person or people in your photos. Maybe you want the focus to be on you, but you want your spouse or child jump in for a few shots - that’s totally okay! They are welcome to share in the fun.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE SHOOT?

- Your wardrobe selection, any props, jewelry
- Towel, maybe two
- A garbage bag or laundry basket to put your wet items in when you leave
- A change of clothes to go home in